Royal Spectacle: Eighteenth-Century Court Ceremony in Books, Prints and Drawings

This exhibition further celebrates the publication of Waddesdon’s Books and Bookbiindings catalogue (published earlier in 2013), and highlights illustrated books published on the occasion of court festivities, celebrations and spectacles. These lavishly illustrated books, containing large format engravings, document the many extravagant festivities and ceremonies staged for the French court during the 17th and 18th centuries to mark the life cycle of births, marriages and deaths. Fanciful theatrical stage settings are the backdrop for richly costumed processions, equestrian tournaments, theatre performances, church ceremonies and spectacular firework displays. Intended for the Royal family and aristocracy the books are presented in exquisite bindings. Although focused on France, the exhibition also includes some comparative material from other European courts.

Website
www.​nationaltrust.​org.​uk/​waddesdon-​manor

Source: http://www.culture24.org.uk//mw795?id=EVENT459099